News

April is National Internship Awareness Month
College: Richard Bland College of William and Mary
Feature: TeeAnn Allison
Internship Site: Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce
Special thanks to Celia Brockway for helping to identify and recruit our first Richard Bland College Intern. TeeAnn will complete her associate’s degree this spring and she is applying to Virginia universities to continue her education.
TeeAnn immediately demonstrated an understanding of workplace expectations which

On March 24th, Chamber staff participated in a conference call organized by Keith Boswell, CEO of Virginia's Gateway Region (VGR), a regional economic development organization.
The purpose of this call was to establish an emergency response task force comprised of regional economic development organizations, including VGR, Prince George County Economic Development, Hopewell City Economic Development, the Virginia Unemployment Office, local reps from the Small Business Administration and Small Business

New Gordmans Stores to Open as Planned; Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies Cancelled
HOUSTON (March 16, 2020) – Gordmans today announced that it is moving forward as planned with its previously announced March 17th new store openings. However, to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and as part of an ongoing effort to comply with recommendations from state, local and national officials to keep its guests, associates, partners and facilities safe, the Company is cancelling its previously announced

RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Amazon will open a new fulfillment center for its Amazon Basics line in Prince George County. The company will lease the former 798,000-square-foot Ace Hardware Corporation facility, adding up to 150 new jobs to Amazon’s existing workforce of more than 10,000 full-time employees in the Commonwealth.
“This investment expands Amazon’s footprint in Virginia and is a strong testament to our competitive business climate, prime East Coast location, and

Hopewell/Prince George, Va. – The Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce hosted a program at John Tyler Community College’s William H. Talley Workforce Center for the purpose of celebrating the Chamber’s 100th Anniversary and honoring current members that were around when the Chamber was founded. The “Legacy” organizations are: Ashland (formerly Hercules, Inc.), DuPont (currently DuPont Teijin Films – Hopewell Site); AdvanSix (Allied Chemical); WestRock (Hummel-Ross Fibre Corp.), J. W. Enochs, Inc.,

Hopewell/ Prince George, VA. - TeeAnn Allison is serving as an intern with Hopewell/ Prince George Chamber of Commerce for the Spring 2020 semester. A resident of Prince George, Allison is a sophomore at Richard Bland College of William and Mary. Professor Celia Brockway, Director of Student Success, nominated Allison for the position.“Richard Bland College (RBC) is excited to partner with the Hopewell/ Prince George Chamber of Commerce to assist in finding interns for its members,” says Maria E. Dezenberg,

Guncotton Coffee & Gallery has added a new artist in residence to their staff. David Bartlett, an art teacher at Appomattox Regional Governor's School, has taken on the role. Bartlett has moved into one of the studio spaces above the coffee shop where he is working on his paintings. The other studio spaces will be rented out to other artists at a yet to be determined rate. As part of his role, Bartlett will be coordinating exhibitions, shows, and events at Guncotton.

Donnie Barber of member business Barber Construction in Hopewell has recently acquired the old Hopewell City Jail and is in the process of renovating the property for commercial use. The concept is to turn the space into something like a showroom for his hometown business with a waiting area, conference room (shared by several businesses), a kitchen, bathrooms, and showers for his employees. On the second floor, he intends to build out several upscale apartments. The exterior yard will be a shop and work

PG County Economic Development assisted Campofrio Food Group in locating a 143,790 SF, refrigerated facility in SouthPoint Business Park (8025 QUALITY DRIVE) from The Hollingsworth Companies. Campofrio, one of the largest companies in the processed meats sector, are well known for their European style meat products sold across Europe. They have recently enjoyed a very rapid growth in the United States for a company that before 2014 was primarily a European focused company.

Holy Mackerel Small Batch Beers, a beer maker based near Fort Lauderdale, is working on a brewpub concept at the former Dockside Restaurant at 700 Jordan Point Road. For more info, see this article in Richmond BizSense: https://richmondbizsense.com/2019/12/09/a-hopewell-brewery-boom/

Prince George County Economic Development has applied for a grant with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development under its 2020 Virginia Telecommunications initiative Program to expand broadband within PG County.

Dino Lunsford of Lunsford Construction in Hopewell and Old Towne's Alibi in Petersburg has recently acquired a Spanish Revival building located at 256 E Broadway Ave in Downtown Hopewell, Virginia. Lunsford and his business partner, Cesare Evola (Cesare's and Antonio's in Chesterfield), are currently renovating the property to accommodate a retail or other suitable tenant to occupy the ground floor of the building. They are also converting the second floor into three apartments and expect them to be ready

After serving years as the Director of the Hopewell Downtown Partnership, a Virginia Main Street Program, Evan Kaufman has resigned. The organization and it's Board of Directors is currently looking to hire a new director. Anyone interested in applying should visit this link. Deadline for applications is January 15th.

The Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce announces the appointment of long-time board member Dennis S. McDermott, PE, PMP to serve as the Board President assuming the role since August 2019 continuing 2020. This appointment is just one of many strategic Chamber actions on the eve of its Century status next year. McDermott has served on the Board for five years. He led in the creation and sustainment of the regional Manufacturing & Technology Camp for local high school students (now in its 8th

The Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has elected a sub-committee to support the creation of a video and/or podcast series that promotes knowledge of businesses and employment opportunities within the Hopewell and Prince George Area. The Chamber will produce the videos and podcasts, and be responsible for coordinating electronic distribution through the appropriate channels (social media, YouTube, newsletters, etc.) and partners (Hopewell/Prince George Public Schools, Chamber

Roja, a taco restaurant by Meredith Dean, to open in Downtown HopewellHopewell, VA – A new taco restaurant will soon open in downtown Hopewell, adding to the mix of businesses helping to revitalize the historic downtown district.Roja, a concept by entrepreneur Meredith Dean, will serve a variety of specialty crafted tacos, beer, wine, and liquor, inside of a renovated 1950’s Valentine Diner once known as “The Little Chef.” Meredith is the current owner of Verde which operates out of Guncotton coffee and

On October 17th, the new Tri-Cities Young Professionals group, or TYP, had their first gathering at Trapezium Brewing in Petersburg. The Hopewell/Prince George Chamber has been trying to get a young professionals group up and running since the summer of 2018. This most recent meeting was the collaborative work of the HPG Chamber, and the Petersburg and Colonial Heights Chambers. Capitalizing on the success of their Top 40 Under 40 initiative this year, the three Chambers decided now would be great time to

Hopewell/Prince George Chamber Kicks Off Virginia Manufacturing Appreciation Week with ArtoberSponsored by AdvanSix Hopewell/Prince George, Va. – On October 1, 2019 the Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce will delight the community with the first in a series of cultural arts events called “Artober”, created in partnership with Richmond Culture Works and AdvanSix.The first event will occur on the evening of the HPG Chamber’s 100th Mixer at The Barns of Kanak in Prince George County, featuring an

Colonial Heights and Hopewell/Prince George Chambers Introduce a Pilot Program to Recognize 40 Under 40 Individuals After Hours Hosted by SonabankColonial Heights, Va. – The lobby of Sonabank’s Colonial Heights Branch was packed with nominees and chamber members who were there to support individuals with a passion for our community. Members and guests enjoyed locally sourced refreshments and winners were awarded with an embossed portfolio and a 40 Under 40 window cling for the “Class of 2019.”.Ann Cabell

AMC’S MONUMENT TO FILM IN HOPEWELL
Hopewell, VA—The City of Hopewell is excited to announce the filming of AMC’s Monument in Downtown Hopewell during the first two weeks of August. The series will follow in the footsteps of the popular AMC program The Walking Dead, now in its ninth season, and the current offshoot series Fear the Walking Dead, which both rank among the most-watched cable series on television.
Production of the ten episode series will begin in Central Virginia this summer. The show

Although LOVEworks around Virginia have been popular and attracting visitors for some time, the 50th Anniversary of Virginia is for Lovers is really bringing people out of the woodwork. Almost like geocaching or some sort of a Pokemon Go game featuring love-themed pieces of art, LOVEworks are enthusiastically hunted down for their photo opportunities. At least several times a week, cars stop by the visitors center and disgorge couples holding hands or excited families here to snap a shot in front of our

Hopewell’s revival strategy recognizes that all roads lead to the riversGreenway designed to slow stormwater flow is quickly attracting the public to its restored habitats and access to James and Appomattox
Read the article from The Bay Journal here.

From Hopewell City Government: WODA Workforce Housing Project, known as Freedman Point, is currently pre-leasing units and currently under construction. Freedman Point will feature 12 one-bedroom, 36 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom apartments with onsite parking. This $11 million development will offer 68 affordable family rental units and commercial space within Hopewell’s Downtown district.

Employment Signing Day for Prince George County High School Graduates
~Local company offers full-time positions to certified logistics specialists
Prince George, VA – Three 2019 graduates of Prince George County High School, offered full- time employment with Standard Motor Products, Inc., were honored at a “Signing Day” ceremony at the Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce, June 11, 2019. The students, who have also earned the Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) credential from the Community

Hopewell/Prince George Futures Initiative UnderwayHopewell/Prince George, Va. – In the fall of 2017 the H/PG Chamber Board of Directors determined a course of action in preparation for the 100th Anniversary of the Chamber’s incorporation September 2020. The Futures Initiative was formed. This team is working to ensure that the Chamber is on the right course. Incremental changes have been underway since 2017 which include granting our ex officio board members a vote. This change signals the importance of

Freedman Point will be a 68-unit affordable family housing community in Hopewell, VA.August 2 groundbreaking at Freedman Point in Hopewellcelebrates future high-quality mixed-use affordable housing option Hopewell VA, August 3, 2018: Yesterday community leaders, City officials, housing agency officials, and other supporters joined developer Woda Cooper Companies, Inc. to celebrate the official Groundbreaking at Freedman Point where 68 affordable family rental homes and commercial space will be built

Matt Balazik is working to restore prehistoric sturgeon to James River in VirginiaHopewell and Prince George, VA - Matt Balazik, PhD, is helping to restore the Atlantic sturgeon to the James River in Virginia. Balazik works for the Army Corps of Engineers and is a research assistant professor at the Virginia Commonwealth University Rice Rivers Center, just south of Hopewell, Virginia.
Balazik grew up in a house in Prince George County. “I could throw a baseball from my lawn into the James,” he said. “We

6 area teens win scholarships at 6th annual ITAC Manufacturing Tech Summer CampCutline: Members of the winning team Noah Craft from Prince George High School, Justin Halder from NB Clements Jr. High in Prince George, Heather Coletti from Colonial Heights High School, Brody Fisher from Dinwiddie High School, Omari Duncan from Hopewell High School, T’Angelo Munoz from Prince George High School. This team known as the Blue Team captured the win!Hopewell/Prince George, VA – A multi-jurisdiction team of six

Enjoy History on a Hog: Ride VA Routes 5 & 10 to See 400 Years of American EvolutionJune 28, 2018 - Riders can travel back through 400 years of history on Scenic Route 5 east from Richmond, Virginia’s current capital city, to Jamestown, the earliest permanent English settlement in America (1607) and Virginia’s first capital. The Virginia House of Burgesses, the first elected legislative body in American, convened In Jamestown in July 1619, will soon celebrate its 400th anniversary as part of the American

Tony Jackson graced the stage of The Beacon Theatre with Donna Meade's Old Dominion Barn Dance here in Hopewell Virginia and WOW what a performer!
His voice is as sweet and smooth, which complements his beautiful smile! When hi sings, you're captivated.
Visit his facebook HERE
Visit his website HERE
Here's my favorite music video!

Come out for the 5th Annual Get Your Butts to Broadway on Saturday, June 30th from 5-9pm!
This annual amateur pork butt competition will take place along E Broadway Avenue between Route 10 and Hopewell Street! Admission is free, but tasting tickets are $15 and include a sampling of each competitor's BBQ as well as a ballot to vote for the People's Choice Award! Voting for the People's Choice will end at 7pm, but tastings will be available until 8pm. Tickets are available

HOPEWELL, VA. MAY 30, 2018
Donna Meade, a former Mercury-Polygram recording artist and the widow of country music singer Jimmy Dean, is recreating the Old Dominion Barn Dance in Hopewell, VA.
“I believe that good, wholesome, traditional country music will never go away,” said Meade. “The Barn Dance is a beloved and legendary show that rivaled the Grand Ole Opry in its heyday, and an important part of Virginia's history and culture. As long as I am able I hope to keep it going, and then pass the torch

Did you know Pocahontas lived in Central Virginia?
Did you know she lived at the settlement of Henricus for a short period? photo: http://womensbios.lib.virginia.edu/featured?id=POCAHONTAS
Here is what Historians at Henricus Historical Park have to say:
"Captured by Captain Samual Argall in 1613, Pocahontas was initially taken to Jamestown. Sir Thomas Gates was fearful of reprisal from Powhatan, and turned her over to Sir Thomas Dale at Henricus.
Dale instructed Reverend Alexander Whitaker to care for

Hopewell Downtown Partnership's 5th annual “Get Your Butts to Broadway” Festival is right around the corner! Featuring some of the best local backyard pork butt cookers in the region, this festival unleashes the best pork butts known to man. Complete with beer, live music, and plenty of food, this signature event is one you don’t want to miss, June 30th from 5-9 pm.
This year there will be nine competitors all vying for the title of “Best Butt on Broadway.” For $15, you will be able to taste a sample of

With 2 beautiful scenic rivers and 2 peaceful lakes, Central Virginia is a great kayaking destination for the summer and fall.Hopewell Recreation and Parks will hold kayaking-for-beginners-style excursions throughout the summer, read more and register HERE.
Want to be featured in our tourism advertisements? Send us your kayaking pictures and/or headshot to tourism@hpgchamber.org
Check out these websites for more info on the local waterways you can explore on a kayak:Lake ChesdinAppomattox RiverJames

What began in 1991 as an effort to preserve a threatened Civil War battlefield near Petersburg, Virginia, has evolved into one of America’s finest history and heritage travel destinations.
Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier is a 424-acre historical campus that features world-class museums, antebellum homes, a National Historic Landmark Civil War battlefield, a slave life exhibit, educational programs, and special events. It has been called “the new crown jewel of Civil

Did you know the James and Appomattox Rivers are tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay?
This means what we put into our local rivers directly affect the health of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean!
Donate your time this weekend to help clean up a portion of the Appomattox River her in Hopewell, Virginia by participating in “Clean the Bay Day” organized by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Register here to help clean up at Hopewell City MarinaRead more about this State-wide event hereFollow FOLAR-

Last week at Hopewell Downtown Partnership’s Third Thursday event I met a man who had questions about glass bottles he found which read Hopewell Brewery.
He lives on the Appomattox River and has collected 10 of these Hopewell Brewery bottles and says he usually finds them in groups of 2-3 at a time.
Have you seen bottles like these? Do you know anything about a Hopewell Brewery? Stay tuned for future blogs as we delve into the cool mystery!

Hopewell/Prince George, VA -Pamplin Historical Park is offering tourists a new audio tour that includes a brief five minute walk or a half day stroll covering more than 30 outdoor stops. The 422-acre Civil War park includes four museums, three anti-bellum homes, living history demonstrations, a Civil War battlefield and a Civil War Adventure Camp. Agrarian lovers will find an antebellum kitchen garden, field plants like wheat, corn, cotton and tobacco, a gardening demonstrations, grazing sheep and

Pamplin Historical Park is offering tourists a new audio tour that includes a brief five minute walk or a half day stroll covering more than 30 outdoor stops. The 422-acre Civil War park includes four museums, three anti-bellum homes, living history demonstrations, a Civil War battlefield and a Civil War Adventure Camp. Agrarian lovers will find an antebellum kitchen garden, field plants like wheat, corn, cotton and tobacco, a gardening demonstrations, grazing sheep and chickens.
Their new state of the art

Nestled on the bank of the Appomattox River is a home built in 1789. Weston Plantation has been home to the Gilliam family, then the Nelsons, then the Woods, then the Dolans, and now the Historic Hopewell Foundation.One of the best ways to create a unique experience at a historical site is through costumed interpreters. Here are a few photographs highlighting Weston's history through costumed volunteers. To learn more about Weston Plantation visit https://historichopewell.org/weston-plantation/Also

Last week we helped a couple who were traveling from Maine to find the burial site of a great-grandfather who served as a doctor in the Civil War. They knew he was buried in “City Point, VA” because the family had a marker in remembrance back in Maine inscribed with “buried in City Point, VA.”
I showed them a map and we decided he was most likely buried at City Point National Cemetery here in Hopewell, which as most locals know was once called “City Point” in history.
Little did they realize there are

Today I met author Gordon C. Rhea thanks to local historian George Fickett! George brought Gordon to the Hopewell Prince George Visitor Welcome Center for a photo opportunity as they began a Civil War tour of Hopewell and Prince George Virginia.
Rhea’s book On to Petersburg, which was published September of 2017, details Grant and Lee’s Overland Campaign from the Wilderness to Petersburg.
You can read the first few pages of Rhea’s book here

Hopewell native Daniel Jones, who now lives in Croatia, is visiting home and has taken on the role of photographer in the newest Hopewell Prince George Virginia tourism marketing project! We are equally excited and thankful.
This photography phase of the much larger tourism project is the strong foundation on which we will build a network of cohesive and complementary marketing campaigns.
Not only are we working with Daniel, who is an extremely talented photographer, but we have an arsenal of both

Have you visited Downtown Hopewell recently?! It is turning into quite the quaint little destination!
From sold-out concerts to personalized coffee blends, downtown Hopewell has something for everyone. Downtown Hopewell is designated as fully designated Main Street Community, complete with historical buildings, yummy food, and eclectic shopping. Shop owners downtown are friendly and inviting, delivering true southern hospitality.
Make a full afternoon of walking downtown between the historic, renovated,

The Hopewell Prince George Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for their 17th Annual Golf Open
President’s Cup Tournament, supporting the mission of the Chamber: Growing the Economy!
Here is a list of local golf courses where you can practice your swing:
Dogwood Trace Golf Course
3108 Homestead Dr, Petersburg, VA 23805https://www.dogwoodtracegolf.com/
Prince George Golf Course
8399 Golf Course Dr, Disputanta, VA 23842http://www.princegeorgegolfcourse.net/
Country Club of Petersburg
1250 Flank Rd,

Downtown Hopewell, Virginia—The newest business in downtown is grinding!Legacy Roasting Company is now roasting, grinding, packaging, and selling coffee in downtown Hopewell. Larry Hancock, owner, gave me a brief tour of his operations and it was absolutely impressive!
If you’ve never experienced the smell of freshly roasting coffee you’re missing out! Larry starts each batch with green coffee beans, then they are roasted to perfection based on how light or dark the batch will be, then its ground and

As Earth Day approaches, our local communities are pushing a beautification effort to clean up Hopewell and Prince George County, VA.
Everyone is encouraged to participate in these efforts to clean up our communities, here are 5 super easy ways you can help!
Pick up litter at home and on the street where you livePick up litter at work around where you park and the front doorPick up litter at your favorite local park, and try to every time you go!Make sure to put trash in the appropriate receptacles, and

To visit Fort Lee, located in Prince George County Virginia, you will need to first stop at the Dukes Welcome Center.
The Dukes Welcome Center currently houses Fort Lee’s Visitor Information Office, the offices of the Physical Security branch, the Visitor Control Center, and Weapon Registration.
The Visitor Information Office can help visitors find a destination on post and answer general questions about Fort Lee services.
Whether you’re visiting a family member, looking for the museums, or are

Have you visited the U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum or U.S. Army Women's Museum?Petersburg Area Regional Tourism hosted Virginia This Morning on CBS 6 at Fort Lee and highlighted the two great museums there. Make sure to to stop at Fort Lee Visitor Information (located to the right of Lee Gate on Rt 36) first to get a visitors pass.
Watch this video for more info!
https://www.facebook.com/petersburg.region/videos/2075174156059719/
Visit the Hopewell/Prince George Visitor Welcome Center to plan your day

Saturday April 7th was a rainy day in Central VA, but that didn’t stop Prince George County’s 5K Trail Run/Walk at the Appomattox River Regional Park.
The truly dedicated came out and ran through the rain, showing their support for Prince George County Parks and Recreation, Friends of the Lower Appomattox River, and Special Olympics.
If you didn’t make it Saturday here is the trail map, get out and try it for yourself!
As the weather warms up this park will be buzzing with runners, walkers,

Pamplin Historical Park's Breakthrough Trail 5k
On Saturday March 31st you have a unique opportunity to combine history and outdoor recreation!
This first time event is a partnership between the Park and Tri-Cities Road Runners. The race will take place on historic Civil War battlefield trails starting at the Hart Farm and finishing at the Freedom Garden. A course map can be viewed http://pamplinpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Breakthrough-5K-Map2.jpg.
Top adult overall male and female finishers and

Hoppin’ Happenings in Hopewell.http://hopewellva.gov/special-events/
This event is for all ages! Don’t miss the largest egg hunt in Hopewell! This event will feature a variety of activities including egg hunts, egg toss, group games, petting zoo, hay maze, crafts, face painting, inflatable obstacle course, and visits with the Easter Bunny! Concessions will be available for purchase. Egg hunts will be divided into age categories. Free parking is available on site.
Saturday, March 31, NOON-3PM
Held at

Get ready to paddle the Appomattox! We cut the ribbon Saturday at the new kayak/canoe launch at the Appomattox River Regional Park!
Follow the road all the way back to the river where there is a restroom, pavilion with picnic tables, parking, kayak launch, and a beautiful nature trail.
Thanks to the support from local groups and community members! PG Rotary, FOLAR, Regional Jail, Fort Lee, City and County Elected Officials, H/PG Chamber, Christ and Grace Episcopal Church and more were on hand to

Let’s face it – nurturing plants ensures our survival. It’s that simple. In Hopewell and Prince George County, Virginia, we express the importance of gardening and agriculture in many ways. Our local area promotes gardening through the Prince George Master Gardener Association Horticulture Scholarship . It is offered to students pursuing their love of gardening and plant science. Perhaps the most glamorous of botanical events is Historic Garden Week www.vagardenweek.org April 21-28, 2018. This is the

Without women, where would we be?
Without mothers, grandmother, aunts, or sisters what kind of world would we live in?
Travel through time and follow the history of women who shaped our region and our country.
Henricus Historical Park, where Pocahontas spent timeGrant’s Cabin at Appomattox Manor in Historic City Point, where Mrs. Grant visited her husbandWeston Plantation, where Mrs. Gilliam raised a family and farmPamplin Historical Park, where Mrs. Boisseau shared her property with soldiersPrince

Spend your day in "small-town-USA" right here in Prince George County, Virginia!
Start with a light breakfast at Prince George Family BBQ on rt 460.
Cross over rt 460 and take a drive through "New Bohemia" to The Prince George Regional Heritage Center located 6406 Courthouse Rd, Prince George, VA 23875. Here, you'll follow the timeline of the county's richly diverse history from prehistory to present!
Next, drive out to 400 year old Martian's Brandon Episcopal Church located 18721 James River Dr, Spring

It's sunny, warming up, lunch time, and your afternoon is open. Don't spend your afternoon stuck behind the computer washed in blue light, step into the sunshine and spend a few hours in Historic Hopewell Virginia!First, visit Lisa's Cafe on E Broadway and order sandwiches, chips, and a drink to-go!Then, head over to City Park and enjoy your lunch river-side! I recommend eating on the pier, its so peaceful. Next, travel to Grant's Cabin at Petersburg National Battlefield City Point and stroll the historic

March 12, 2018. Don’t miss an exciting opportunity to taste the hard work of the Advanced Food Service Training Division at Fort Lee, VA.
Today through the 15th you can glimpse into the world of Fort Lee’s training operations by attending different culinary events held at McLaughlin Fitness Center located 500 Lee Ave, Fort Lee, VA 23801.
Beginning at 9AM and lasting until 4:30PM, the students of the Advanced Food Service Training Division will be participating in live cooking events, individual

The Garden Club of Virginia invites you to tour its 85th Historic Garden Week April 21-28, 2018. They have an online map to help you design an itinerary, or stop by the Hopewell/Prince George Visitor Welcome Center to pick up a hard copy!
This special week is a lovely excuse to visit and sample each of Virginia’s unique regions.
There are 6 local locations to visit in the “Capital Region”! If you’d rather visit the other regions, the Garden Club of Virginia has listed all 33 home and garden stops and 37

The Hopewell Phase 2 nitrogen reduction project has earned a Grand Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Virginia. In 2012 Phase 1 of this project separated domestic wastewater from industrial. Now, Phase 2 will reduce the total discharge of nitrogen into the James River. This project, completed 4 months ahead of schedule and $14 million under budget, will allow the Chesapeake Bay to remain America's largest and most productive tributary for decades to come!
For more info

Last week Guncotton Coffee and Gallery had a quiet soft-opening and the response from locals has been nothing but positive. I had the honor to be their second customer of the day on their opening morning and will say I’m looking forward to becoming a regular!
Greeted by smiling (already caffeinated) faces at 7AM was refreshing. I had a Combustion Mocha, the secret ingredient being cayenne pepper, and it was delicious! The in-house baker, Wonder City Bakery, had samples of lemon bars, almond biscotti, and

Prince George County’s Emergency Management staff has been working hard all week sharing with 4th grade students in Prince George County information about “The Pillowcase Project.”
According to American Red Cross’ website: “The Pillowcase Project is a preparedness education program for children in grades 3 – 5, which teaches students about personal and family preparedness, local hazards, and basic coping skills. Generally given as a 60 minute presentation by Red Cross volunteers, the program leads students

A bit of history courtesy of https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-floral-design-day-february-28/“Floral Design Day was created as a unique way to celebrate a special birthday of Carl Rittner, the founder of the Rittners School of Floral Design in Boston over 60 years ago. Mr. Rittner is a pioneer in floral art education.”In 1995, Governor William F. Weld of Massachusetts, proclaimed this day as Floral Design Day. Check out these local florist’s if you’re in need of a floral design to celebrate

On Saturday, March 3rd at 4:00 pm there will be a 400th Anniversary Celebration of Martin’s Brandon Church. This event will be the first of four observances to commemorate the four hundred year existence of John Martin’s Brandon and particularly its parish church. Martin was one of the original settlers at Jamestown. There will be special interpretations, the inaugural showing of a video that traces the earliest years, and exhibits depicting the parish’s long history and heritage. A reception will follow

There are lots of beautiful parks and scenic river views in Hopewell and Prince George County, VA. I think the best way to experience both of these is an organized running or walking event!
With the warmer months fast approaching, you can bet there will many opportunities to participate in an event incorporating outdoor recreation and the beautiful rivers we are lucky to have here!
The combination of exercising releasing endorphins and calming feelings induced by the visual aesthetic of riverfront trails

As we continue to explore the steps that brighten our spirits during the winter doldrums, take a moment to appreciate the change in weather we’ve had the past few days!
Today, Wednesday Feb 21st, Central VA may see a record-breaking high for the month! With a high of 77 degrees, we can thank Mother Nature for a little spring-preview!
Now, on to how we can positively affect our mood.
Helping others taps into our altruistic desire to do good. Whether we donate items, our time, our skills, or talents, or a

Step 4 to beating the winter blues is planning a trip. Not only will the trip lift lift your spirits, the planning process will, too!
There are plenty of hotels, and even a few bed and breakfasts for you to choose from, in and near Hopewell and Prince George County, VA.
There are plenty of activities to occupy your time here, too!
Hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, boating, historic tours, delicious food, concerts, movies, and more!
We are an convenient and affordable "hub" for day trips to Richmond,

If you’re keeping up with our list of ways to beat the winter blues, welcome back! If you’ve just found this lone blog, check out the rest of the series here.
“Turn on the tunes” immediately makes me think of a car ride with the windows down and the radio blasting my favorite song.
“Turn on the tunes” also makes me think of a warm summer evening listening to live music at Cul’s Courthouse Grille.
“Turn on the tunes” makes me think of the outdoor concert series at Weston Plantation sponsored by the

Hey there, glad you’re back for more!
On our journey to beat the winter blues, today we delve into eating smarter in Hopewell and Prince George County, Virginia.
To us, eating smarter means two things; first eating healthy, and second eating informed.
Eating healthy means making sure you have a balance of macro nutrients in each meal and consistently incorporating fruits and veggies. Eating informed means knowing what macro nutrients are, what a healthy balance is, and how they fuel your body!
Doing

Welcome back!
Today we’re are expanding on the first step to beating those winter blues: Make your environment brighter.
Here are a few ways you can accomplish that in Hopewell/Prince George, VA!
First, open your blinds! Let in some natural sunlight and your mood will immediately lift!
Next, try finding a new environment that’s bright if you have some work to do, I’ll be using the café area at the Prince George Library in the upcoming weeks because it’s so bright with lots of windows!
Finally, grab a

When you hear the word“saucy”what comes to mind?
My mind immediately visualizes 2 things: a plate of spaghetti and a mountain of barbeque pork.
Good thing we have both right here in Hopewell and Prince George County, VA to satisfy both cravings!
Visit 1: Luca Italian Restaurant, 6619 Courthouse Rd. Prince George, VA 23875
Visit 2: Saucy’s BBQ, 207 E City Point Rd, Hopewell, VA 23860

Did you know the City of Hopewell Marina had a store?
It does! And it’s truly a small-town gem.
Family owned and operated, Fish Tales II has cold drinks, snacks, tee shirts, sun glasses, bait & tackle, and almost anything else you may need for a day on the river!
Purchase your ramp passes for the whole year in advance and save in the long-run rather than $8 each visit.
The store is rockin’ when Hopewell’s Rockin’ on the River Concert Series is in season, they sell cold adult beverages to loyal community

The Keystone Tractor Museum in Colonial Heights, VA is home to 60 trucks and 180 tractors on display! And that’s just counting those on display; behind-the-scenes are more waiting to be restored!
This family owned and operated museum is a time capsule that feeds not only your mind and memories, but your belly, too! When you walk through the front doors you’re greeted with delicious smells of barbeque pork…absolutely mouthwatering.
I was most surprised to find a Hopewell, VA artifact! An early Hopewell

Did you know Jan 28th was National Fun at Work Day?!
We celebrated with DONUTS! (Thanks, Gail!)
It makes sense that allowing a little fun at work every once in a while increases productivity, leads to higher employee retention and makes a more positive work environment! This leads to more productive, creative and loyal workers.
I don’t wanna’ toot our own horns, but the staff here at the Hopewell/Prince George Visitor Welcome Center is always having fun and working hard, we are a great team!
We

We received 5 boxes of Virginia’s 2018 Travel Guide and WOW I can’t stop flipping through it! Stop by the Hopewell/Prince George Visitor Welcome Center to pick one up ASAP!
Local highlights found within its beautiful pages:
Cul’s Courthouse Grille
Henricus Historical Park
Chesterfield County Fair
Virginia Diner
The Governor, Ralph S. Northam, in his written welcome at the beginning of the guide, called Virginia “one of the most historically significant destinations in the country.”
Well, Mr.

Located on 15th Avenue in Hopewell, Virginia is a quaint bowling alley that has been family owned since 1955.
The owner, Mike Zevgolis, was so passionate about continuing the sport for younger generations that he took it upon himself in the 1980s to organize and transport students back and forth from Hopewell Schools to include bowling in physical education!
Now under new management, the Zevgolis family business finds itself in what The Progress Index calls a renaissance. Leagues for young and old,

Longtime Racers Purchase Virginia Motorsports Park
Virginia natives Tommy and Judy Franklin have purchased Virginia Motorsports Park in Dinwiddie, VA.
The new owners are founders of the Professional Drag Racing Association, a perfect fit for Central Virginia’s premier motorsport facility which includes: a quarter-mile dragstrip, motocross and BMX facilities, a mud pit for tractor pulls, and an autocross course.
Visit their website for more information http://www.virginiamotorsports.com/
Watch these

Fly Ball and Dock Diving for Dogs
We had a couple stop at the Hopewell/Prince George Visitor Welcome Center in the summer on their way to a Fly Ball and Dock Diving competition for their dog.
Not familiar with these sports? Neither were we!
Check out this video of Fly Ball: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Drp8Gu4lx5U
And this video of Dock Diving: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlIqRGuXrjw
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I bet we have some local dogs who have these hidden talents! We definitely have plenty of docks on the

A Glace at the Weekend in Hopewell/Prince George County, VA
This weekend looks like a mix of music, art, spooks, and sports! If these events sound like fun to you, reach out to the organization on Facebook where we found these events listed, or give them a call.
JAN20 Tracy Lawrence in Hopewell, VA 6:30 PM · The Beacon Theatre (804) 446-3457
JAN20 All My Sons 8 PM · Swift Creek Mill Theatre (804) 748-5203
JAN20 Edgewood Plantation Public Ghost Hunt and Dinner 5 PM · Edgewood Plantation (804)

The nicest couple form Yorktown, VA stayed overnight at the Best Western Plus here in Hopewell, Virginia so they could take in the Travis Tritt concert at The Beacon Theatre. They passed up his performance in Virginia Beach at The Sandler Center last week and chose to venture into our neck of the woods! We are so appreciative of them adding an extra 40 miles to their trip to experience the concert with us and stay here! They were impressed by The Beacon Theatre’s future line-up of artists, so I know we will

Where went those warm temperatures of last week?!
If you’re like me and this cold snap has chilled you to the bone, try a hot cup of tea to warm up from the inside-out.
Visit The Herb Basket in Prince George County, VA for a personalized experience if you’re new to tea-drinking. Located at 5716 Courthouse Rd, Prince George, VA 23875, the staff at The Herb Basket is a family-owned and operated health food store serving our communities for over 23 Years!
Becky Hanks is the store’s Master Herbalist. She is

Happy Friday my friends! Have the warmer temps inspired a Google search for 3-day vacations? Here at the Hopewell/Prince George Visitor Welcome center we are ready to assist! Did you know that in 2016 54% of workers did not use all their allotted vacation time?!
If we’ve peaked your interest, check this out:
PLEASE don’t leave your vacation time left on the table in 2018!Millennials, there’s no shame in
taking that vacation you’ve been
working hard to enjoy!
We are happy to help you plan a getaway

Have you already given up on your 2018 New Year’s Resolutions? If you’ve set a goal to be healthier this year, you may face the obstacle of distance when choosing a gym.
It makes sense that the shorter your drive (or walk) to the gym, the more likely you are to get up and go! If you live and or work in Hopewell/Prince George County, VA you’re in luck, there are 6 gyms close to cut your commute!
Click on the gym below to be directed to its websites:
1. Prince George County Central Wellness Center
2. City

January 8th: National “Clean Off Your Desk Day”
Did you know the second Monday in January is designated National Clean Off Your Desk Day?
Now you do, you’re welcome.
Here are 5 tips to consider when de-cluttering your desk:
1. Get rid of distractions. Close your door, set up a “do not disturb” sign, ask someone to cover the phones, do something to remove yourself from anything to distract you from tackling your messy desk.
2. Clear as much as you can. Start with a clean slate and build a system to stay

Here Are Five Ways to Enjoy a Snow Day in Hopewell and Prince George County, VA
1. Go sledding
2. Build a snowman
3. Make hot chocolate
4. Read a book (and sip that hot chocolate)
5. Plan your summer vacation
Did I forget anything?
Oh!! MAKE SNOW CREAM! Here’s how: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dFnYTj5JPU
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Send us your Hopewell/Prince George County snow day pictures, and snow cream recipes! Email them to Tourism@hpgchamber.org

Happiest of New Year's to you from all of us here at the Hopewell/Prince George Visitor Welcome Center!
We are excited to kick off 2018 with LOTS of new adventures and projects here at the Visitor Center and around our communities!
Stay tuned for the BEST year yet!
Visit our website to learn more about what we have to offer: www.visithpg.com